OLDHAM COUNTY, Ky. — Hundreds of people joined in mourning Sgt. Thomas Petschke Jr., a brother to his fellow firefighters.
He died of a medical emergency after fighting a wildfire in Oldham County. He was 53, a father of two—Megan and Matthew Petschke—and married to Colleen Petschke.
"We will never be able to fully convey our sorrow, gratitude, for this brave soul," Chief Stephen Fante of the Ballardsville Fire Department said.
They came from near and far, somber as his casket moved into a house of worship. It was carried by firefighters from the Ballardsville Fire, where Thomas volunteered.
Joining in song and spirit, they sang hymns. 'How Great Thou Art' came first, 'When Peace, Like a River' after, followed by a sermon from the honored man's pastor.
PHOTOS | Funeral held for Oldham County firefighter who suffered medical emergency while battling wildfire
"We're not saying goodbye today," Reverend Jason Reed said. "We're not saying Auf wieder Sehen, we're saying, 'Rest well dear brother until we see you again.'"
Those who gathered made time to honor a man who made time for others, who focused on the future.
"I've known Tom for 10 years," Sergeant Stephen Sauerbeck said. "But it seems like a lifetime because Tom made time. We first met when he joined the department. I had already been a member for 10 years, so I had the privilege of showing him the ropes. He was a quick learner, and always the first to step up for assignments. We could all see he was going to be a great firefighter."
Outside, a firefighter's send-off waited. A bell tolled for Thomas's heroic soul. The flag over his casket, folded carefully to preserve the memory of his service. His helmet passed through the hands of his fellow firefighters.
Bagpipes carried the tune of "Amazing Grace," fading into the distance before Thomas's casket was loaded and sent off.
Thomas' final journey happens Monday when a caravan from Ballardsville Fire will bring him home to Buffalo, New York, where he'll be buried.
A GoFundMe is setup for the family as they handle the loss.
Make it easy to keep up-to-date with more stories like this. Download the WHAS11 News app now. For Apple or Android users.
Have a news tip? Email assign@whas11.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed.